NY Governor Releases Wind Energy Blueprint

The document defines the New York Offshore Study Area and identifies wind energy areas outside of that study area that will be reviewed for their grid interconnection, costs, and benefits, with all of the options being included in a final Offshore Wind Master Plan expected at the end of 2017.

Sep 16, 2016

New York Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo released the New York State Offshore Wind Blueprint on Sept. 15, after announcing it in his 2016 State of the State address. It is the strategic plan for offshore wind power development along New York's coastline -- energy resources that will contribute to Cuomo's mandate to supply 50 percent of the state's electricity from renewable resources by 2030.

"New York is a national leader in combating climate change, and now we are taking the next big step forward," he said. "By developing a viable offshore wind energy source, we will continue to provide New Yorkers with clean, affordable power and lay the foundation for a thriving clean energy economy. This plan represents the future of New York and will cement our role as a leader in the renewable energy industry for generations to come."

The document defines the New York Offshore Study Area and identifies wind energy areas outside of that study area that will be reviewed for their grid interconnection, costs, and benefits, with all of the options being included in a final Offshore Wind Master Plan expected at the end of 2017.

"The Blueprint is a critical step to ensure New York State will realize its aggressive clean energy goals under Governor Cuomo's leadership. Offshore wind will be a critical contributor to achieving the state's clean energy standard mandate to serve 50 percent of the state's electricity demand from renewable resources by 2030," said Richard Kauffman, chairman of energy and finance for the state.

In June 2016, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority announced its intention to participate in the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management auction for an 81,000-acre wind energy area located 12 miles off the Long Island coast. If it wins the auction, NYSERDA would be able to lead the development and timing of the site's progress on offshore installations, and the Blueprint will help inform NYSERDA on the auction process, according to Cuomo's announcement.

The document "provides the state with a clear path to clean and affordable offshore wind energy that will benefit New York's communities for generations to come. The Department of State looks forward to leading the state's efforts on the BOEM Offshore Renewable Energy Task Force as we ensure that offshore wind leasing moves forward efficiently and in the most appropriate locations," New York Secretary of State Rossana Rosado said.